New analysis has shown that homes and businesses near HS2 could benefit from faster broadband thanks to a new project.

The project will see HS2 sell mobile and broadband providers access to spare capacity in the fibreoptic cabling and telecoms masts. These masts are already being built to support HS2’s signalling and telecoms systems.

HS2 has commissioned Ofcom to look into the surrounding area, and it has shown the 538 postcodes in a 5km radius of HS2 do not have access to 100Mbit/s broadband (including 209 postcodes with access to 10Mbit/s broadband).

HS2 says that telecoms companies could get access to the masts two years before the railway opens.

“Investment in our transport infrastructure can boost opportunities and drive economic growth in every part of our country.

“This scheme will have a positive impact on local areas for generations to come, providing connectivity that will create new opportunities for people and businesses to thrive.”

Rail Minister Lord Hendy